The abandoned resort which was once the secret holiday destination for Soviets

By Sammy Stewart| 1 year ago

Tucked away in the Caucasus mountain range in western Georgia lies an abandoned holiday resort once used by the Kremlin’s elite.

After opening in 1926, the Shovi was the go-to holiday destination for members of the Soviet Union. Although time hasn’t been too kind to the run down establishment, the ruins of the Shovi are breathtaking and have been described by many as the 'Georgian Switzerland.’

It’s easy to see the appeal.

In its prime, the resort was known for its carbonated water and its rejuvenating mineral water. Joseph Stalin was also a big fan of the region and its wine and even had a retirement home built near the resort.

Most of the hotel is now covered in dust and decay, but there are still remnants of the site’s illustrious past.

A built-in-cinema can be found in the basement, a few restaurants and a collection of belongings left behind such a books and crockery.

On a slightly unnerving note, there’s also evidence of a sanatorium where holidaymakers could once mend their health problems with the region’s healing water.

Today photographers, history buffs and tourist continue to flock to this gem of the past and share their eerie findings to social media.

While the multiple multiple wars in the area and the collapse of the Soviet Union led to the demise of many hotels in the region, the reason for the Shovi’s abandonment and when it was closed remains a mystery.

Speaking to Daily Mail about the creepy location, photographer Ioanna Sakellaraki said, “By coincidence during a day hike in the surrounding area I had heard that this region of Georgia had some of the best kept secrets of Soviet times.”

“It was fascinating, felt like an old treasure from the past found in the middle of nowhere,” she added.

In recent years, it seems there might be hope for the Shovi. The stunning surrounding land has gained interest from investors and there are plans for a potential reconstruction.